Sometimes we say things and spark off a conversation, sometimes we say things that people just like. It can be pretty stressful refreshing a page and seeing 27 inside that ominous red circle, and a great relief to see that it was 24 recommends.

My suggestion would be to ad a second circle that would indicate recommends, therefore letting you know what to expect when you open up your notifications. In case you can't envision what I'm talking about, I have included a quick mockup.